Dubai Mall Vape Ban: Residents Take Action

Vape Smoke in Malls: Why Dubai Residents Are Concerned?

Indoor Vaping Sparks Social Tension

Dubai’s shopping malls have recently become the center of attention not only for shopping but also for a new, unpleasant phenomenon: an increasing number of people are complaining about the indoor use of electronic cigarettes, known as vapes. Despite UAE laws clearly banning smoking and vaping in all closed public spaces, some visitors disregard these regulations.

The Dubai Municipality did not ignore the complaints. Their Health and Safety Department has already taken steps: they began closer cooperation with mall operators, placed informational signs at entrances and corridors, and instructed security personnel to warn violators. Hospitality venues and shops were also mandated to enforce the rules. Moreover, smoking is prohibited immediately near entrance and exit points, designating smoking zones at least seven meters away.

Rules Are Broken Despite Regulations

Even though official measures have been enacted, many residents claim that vaping in malls remains common. One resident stated, "When someone walks past my child and blows vape smoke at us, it’s simply disrespectful. It’s not just unpleasant, it also sets a bad example."

Residents emphasize that the UAE has always been at the forefront of upholding community standards and clean public spaces. Indoor vaping contradicts this ideal—even though some consider e-cigarettes "cleaner" than traditional smoking.

Regulation of E-cigarette Use in the UAE

Since April 2019, the UAE has legally allowed the sale of e-cigarettes and refill fluids, but their use is subject to strict regulations. According to these rules, vaping is banned in all closed public spaces—malls, offices, airports (except designated areas), and hospitals.

Additionally, the Dubai Municipality has banned the use of shisha in parks, beaches, and other public recreational areas. Shisha cafes can only operate with special permits and cannot be within 150 meters of schools, mosques, or residential zones. Pregnant women are not allowed to enter these units, even if they do not intend to smoke.

Medical Warnings: Passive Vaping Is Not Harmless

Many believe e-cigarettes are less harmful than traditional cigarettes, but doctors say this assumption is misleading. A pulmonologist practicing in Dubai stated: "Inhaling secondary vape aerosol also carries risks, especially in unventilated, closed spaces."

The specialist added that vape smoke is not merely harmless water vapor; it often contains nicotine, heavy metals, and other harmful compounds. These are especially dangerous to children, the elderly, and those suffering from chronic respiratory diseases.

The medical stance is clear: even short-term exposure can have negative health effects, and the long-term consequences are not yet fully understood—but the existing knowledge already justifies strict regulations.

Summary: Unity of Social Norms and Regulation

Dubai strives to ensure that its public spaces remain safe, clean, and healthy for everyone. The indoor use of e-cigarettes is not only unlawful but also a breach of community norms—particularly in environments where families, children, and tourists are present in great numbers. The actions taken by the authorities and the feedback from residents indicate that vaping belongs not in mall corridors but in designated smoking zones, if at all it has any legitimacy.

(Source: Verified by Dubai Municipality.)